Business Details
44 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Dog Training & Boarding Solutions
Cappa's Kennel has dedicated over four decades to mastering the art of dog training, breeding, and boarding. Founded by Gail Cappadona, our team combines unparalleled expertise in canine behavior with a commitment to personalized care. We specialize in German Shepherds, having bred and trained working dogs for Air Force One, police departments, and service organizations. Our programs emphasize building unbreakable bonds between dogs and handlers through consistency, positive reinforcement, and contextual learning.With a national clientele ranging from CEOs to veterans, we offer tailored training solutions for puppies, service dogs, and behavioral rehabilitation. Our home-based training environment ensures focused attention for each dog, with a maximum of two puppies in residence at any time. Recognized by veterinarians across New England, we prioritize long-term success through continuous support and education for both dogs and their human companions.
Services
Dog Training
Puppy Boarding
Service Dog Training
German Shepherd Puppies
Behavioral Rehabilitation
Genetic Testing
Veteran Support Programs
Socialization Classes
Home Visits
Remote Consultations
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40 years of experience training working German Shepherds for specialized roles
- Personalized programs with continuous support for long-term success
- Proven success with veterans requiring service dogs for PTSD
- Home-based training environment with maximum 2 puppies at a time
- Recommended by veterinarians across New England for behavioral expertise
What people say
Life-changing service dogs
Exceptional behavioral expertise
Personalized training approach
Veteran support success
Lifelong companion development
Services
Dog Training
Our dog training programs focus on building strong human-canine bonds through positive reinforcement and contextual learning. We teach basic commands, leash manners, and advanced behavioral modification tailored to each dog's needs. With decades of experience, we address issues like anxiety, aggression, and socialization challenges for lasting results.
Service Dog Training
Specialized service dog programs prepare canines for roles supporting individuals with physical disabilities or mental health conditions. Our 12-18 month training includes task-specific skills, public access certification, and handler education. We work closely with veterans and mental health professionals to create life-changing partnerships.
Puppy Boarding
Our home-based boarding provides personalized attention for puppies aged 8-12 weeks. Services include housebreaking, crate training, socialization with humans and other animals, and basic obedience instruction. Maximum two puppies at a time ensure individualized care in a nurturing environment.
German Shepherd Puppies
We breed and sell German Shepherd puppies pre-selected for temperament and working ability. Each puppy receives genetic testing, early socialization, and one month of foundational training. Puppies are placed in pre-approved homes with ongoing support for successful integration.
Behavioral Rehabilitation
Our behavioral rehabilitation addresses complex issues in dogs with trauma or poor training histories. Through consistent routines and positive reinforcement, we rebuild trust and teach appropriate responses. We work with owners to maintain progress through follow-up support and training sessions.
People
Gail Cappadona
Owner & Lead Trainer
With 40 years of experience, Gail Cappadona is renowned for training German Shepherds for specialized roles. She developed programs for Air Force One sentries and service dogs, earning veterinary recommendations across New England. Her methods focus on building trust through consistency and positive reinforcement.
Questions
What training methods do you use?
We use positive reinforcement and contextual learning to build trust and teach desired behaviors through consistency and repetition.
Do you offer service dog training for veterans?
Yes, we specialize in service dog programs for veterans with PTSD, including international certification and ongoing support.
What's included in puppy training?
Our programs include housebreaking, crate training, leash manners, basic commands, and socialization with humans and other animals.
How long does service dog training take?
Specialized service dog training typically lasts 12-18 months, including task-specific skills and public access certification.
Can I visit during my puppy's training?
We encourage owner involvement through scheduled sessions and provide regular progress updates via Zoom or phone.
What areas do you serve?
While based in New England, we work with clients nationwide through our personalized training programs and follow-up support.
Videos
